🏛️ How much does an architect make?

About $48 an hour

• Salary: Employed architects earn wages; architectural and engineering services is their largest employment sector. Source
• Bonuses: Some firms add discretionary year-end or performance bonuses, but bonus policies vary by firm. Source

In the United States, the usual path starts with a college degree in architecture. Then gain experience under an architect’s supervision, pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), and apply for a license in the state or territory where you want to work.

1. After high school, study architecture in college.
2. Gain experience under a licensed architect's supervision.
3. Pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
4. Apply for a license in the state or territory where you plan to work.

In the morning, an architect may meet clients, draw plans on a computer, and check designs with engineers. Later, they may visit a construction site to see whether the work follows the plans.

Do government architects earn more?

In May 2025, typical pay was $115,920 in government (excluding state and local education and hospitals), $98,440 in architectural and engineering services, and $95,760 in construction. Source

Can architects get bonuses?

A 2024 report found that more than two-thirds of architecture firms offered discretionary annual bonuses, and nearly half offered performance bonuses. It varies by firm. Source

Does getting licensed lead to a raise?

In an AIA survey, firms that gave raises after licensure made up 80% of small firms, 79% of midsize firms, and 69% of large firms. The raise amount varies. Source

Do architects work extra hours?

Many architects work extra hours when deadlines are near. Self-employed architects may have more flexibility in their schedules. Source

Can architects work for themselves?

Yes. The BLS says 14% of architects are self-employed. They may have more flexibility in their work schedules. Source

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